Betty Couch

POLSON — Betty Couch of Polson, born Betty Fanchon Southworth in Saint Joe, Ark., in 1914, died on Friday, April 8, at her home.

She was attended by her sons Jeff of California, Charles of Pennsylvania; her daughter Nancy Teggeman of Polson, and other family members, notably her great-granddaughter Bella Teggeman, age 18 months, of Whitefish. She is also survived by five grandchildren and Delilah.

She started this last journey in life one week ago, fully cognizant of her destination, without fear and with a smile for all her friends, neighbors, and family who stopped by or called to express their love for her.

Betty raised her children to believe that "life isn't measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the number of moments that take your breath away." She was a whitewater rafter much of her life, her most recent trip being three years ago at the age of 88 on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River.

Horseback riding was a lifelong passion as well. As a Nevada Vaquero, she logged over 300 twenty-mile rides in the desert and mountains.

Although she appreciated adventure, she taught her family that a thousand everyday experiences can take your breath away, as well. She showed them the value to be found in a sunrise, in the touch of another human being, and in the trust of an animal.

Betty was a master gardener, a gourmet cook, and an accomplished artist with no fear of color.

She helped teach her children to ski and ride horses, but most of all she kept them headed in the right direction.

Bon Voyage.

Friends and neighbors were invited to a celebration of Betty's life at her home on Claffey Dr., Polson, on April 10. Arrangements were by Grogan Funeral Home and Crematory of Polson.